Expert Advice for Moving to Glendale, AZ | 2023 Glendale Relocation Guide

Moving to Glendale

Ready for a sun-kissed, desert mermaid kind of life? Well, Glendale, Arizona is calling your name. A bustling suburban enclave, Glendale tempts new arrivers with its entertaining sports culture, delectable dining scene, and sort-after residential living. It's a city that offers not just a change of scenery, but a whole new pace to life, steeped in southwestern charm. Check out our comprehensive guide to relocating to Glendale, your roadmap for navigating this exciting transition with ease and confidence. After all, it's not just about moving -- it's about charging toward a new, thrilling chapter of life.

What to Know Before Moving to Glendale

1. Glendale is a Sports Enthusiast's Heaven!

If you're a sports lover, Glendale, AZ, has a vibrant sports scene you would thoroughly enjoy! The city is home to Arizona's Cardinals NFL team at the State Farm Stadium and the Arizona Coyotes NHL team at the Gila River Arena. If you're a baseball fan, spring training games take place at the city's Camelback Ranch. And let's not forget the numerous golf courses and hiking trails scattered about the city, offering a wide range of outdoor activities.

2. The Antiques Capital of Arizona Calls Glendale Home!

Did you know Glendale is regarded as Arizona's antiques capital? This city is bursting with a plethora of antique shops in its downtown area. The stores along the charming streets of the Historic Downtown and Catlin Court offer a unique collection of items with charming stories behind them. Each shop is as distinct as its discoveries, making treasure hunting a unique experience in Glendale!

3. Chocolate Lover? Glendale's Got You Covered!

Everybody likes a sweet treat now and then, and the city of Glendale knows how to treat its residents! Did you know that Glendale hosts an annual Chocolate Affaire? During the first weekend of February, downtown Glendale transforms into a chocolate lover's paradise. Handmade chocolates, fudges, candy apples, and numerous chocolate-covered delights are just a few of the temptations that await!

4. Education - Glendale is All In!

Encouraging youngsters to hit the books, Glendale prides itself on its stellar public school system. Plus, Glendale Community College and Midwestern University provide excellent opportunities for higher education. Whether you have school-aged children or you're seeking to advance your own educational pursuits, Glendale offers tremendous learning opportunities.

5. The Underrated Sahuaro Ranch Park

Now, here's a little secret. Locate at the heart of Glendale is the historic Sahuaro Ranch Park which offers a taste of Arizona's rural heritage. This park covers 17 acres, featuring 13 original buildings, a lush rose garden, barnyard, and orchards. It's a great spot for picnicking, photography, as well as witnessing occasional peacocks that roam freely across the park. The park also holds many cultural events and festivals that make for fun and educational family outings.

6. Glendale, the Global Culinary Festival Destination!

This may come as a surprise to many! Glendale houses the award-winning Glendale Glitters, one of the most popular free events in the state. However, the festive night also serves as a global culinary festival. During Glendale Glitters, ethnicities from around the world showcase their traditional food. You can sample everything from Greek gyros to soul food, to Mexican and Vietnamese cuisines. Get your taste buds ready for a trip around the world!

Hopefully, our playful spin on the southwestern city of Glendale spurs your move to this vibrant city. Dreamy chocolates, sport fanatics, antique treasures, magnificent family parks, top-class education systems and a global gastronomic festival - Glendale is a gem of a city packed with delights for all!

What to know before moving to Glendale, AZ image

See the 10 Best Movers Nearest You

Enter your zip code, city or state

(Unbiased) Ranking of the top movers in every city.

Pros and Cons of Living in Glendale

Pros of Living in Glendale

Enjoyable Weather Throughout the Year

Glendale, AZ, boasts a warm desert climate, meaning residents can enjoy sunny weather most of the year. If you're a lover of outdoor activities, the plentiful sunshine and mild winters will be a major draw.

Excellent Sporting Events

Glendale is home to the State Farm Stadium, the home turf of the Arizona Cardinals, and Gila River Arena, the home ice rink of the Arizona Coyotes. This makes the city a great place for sports enthusiasts, offering easy access to professional football and hockey games.

Proximity to Phoenix

Living in Glendale provides an exceptional suburban feel while still being near to metropolitan Phoenix. If you work in the city or just want to experience its nightlife, restaurants, and cultural attractions, you'll appreciate the quick commute.

Wide Variety of Outdoor Activities

With its proximity to the desert and mountains, Glendale offers ample opportunity for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. White Tank Mountain Regional Park and the Glendale Xeriscape Garden are just a few local favorites.

Rich Cultural and Arts Scene

Glendale is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene with regular festivals, a thriving downtown, and an array of music and performance venues. Whether you love to explore local art galleries or attend live performances, there's always something happening.

Cons of Living in Glendale

Hot Summers

While Glendale's climate is warm and sunny, summers can become extremely hot with temperatures frequently reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable during the peak summer months.

Limited Public Transit

Public transportation options in Glendale are somewhat limited. Most residents own their own vehicle, and the suburban layout can make walking or biking to destinations less practical.

Potential for Scorpions

Living in Glendale may bring encounters with desert creatures, including scorpions. These invaders can creep into homes and yards, causing a nuisance and potential health risk for residents and their pets.

Higher Crime Rates in Some Areas

Parts of Glendale report higher crime rates compared to the national average. Potential residents should do their research and maybe consider investing in a home security system.

Lower Greenery

Given its desert location, Glendale has less greenery in comparison to other parts of the country. The lack of lush vegetation might be a downside for those who enjoy greener surroundings.

Modern day picture of Glendale, AZ highlighting pros and cons of living in Glendale, AZ

Is Glendale a Good Place to Live?

Glendale, AZ is a great place to live because of its year-round sunny weather, a vast array of outdoor recreational activities, and its food scene with a heavy focus on Southwestern cuisine. The city is also home to a lively arts and culture scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters delivering endless entertainment. In addition, it boasts good schools and friendly neighborhoods, making it an appealing place for both families and individuals.

What Is Glendale Famous For?

Superbowl Host City

Glendale has an illustrious history of hosting the Superbowl. The city's State Farm Stadium, home to the Arizona Cardinals, was the place where the New York Giants triumphed over the New England Patriots in 2008, and where the Patriots narrowly beat the Seattle Seahawks in 2015. Being a Superbowl host city has brought much excitement and tourism to Glendale.

Historic Downtown Glendale

Anyone looking for charm, unique shopping, and good eating should not miss Downtown Glendale. Known for its well-preserved historic charm, downtown Glendale is packed with over 80 antique shops, local eateries, and specialty shops. It's the perfect place to spend a sunny Arizona afternoon!

Chocolate Affaire

Calling all chocolate lovers! Every February, Glendale holds the Chocolate Affaire, a weekend-long festival celebrating all things cocoa. Festival-goers can enjoy plenty of live music, storytelling, and of course, chocolate in all its glorious forms, from truffles to fountain-drenched fruits.

University of Phoenix Stadium

The University of Phoenix Stadium, now known as the State Farm Stadium, is an architectural marvel in Glendale. Not only is it home to the Arizona Cardinals, but it also has a fully retractable natural grass playing field, the first of its kind in North America. This incredible design allows the grass to get outdoor sunlight while keeping it safe during events.

Capital building of Glendale, AZ in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

As of 2023, the average property tax rate in Glendale, AZ is one of the lowest in the United States, at approximately 0.802%. This is significantly less than the national average, which is around 1.07%.

Sales Tax

The total sales tax rate in Glendale, AZ is 9.2% as of 2023. This is rather high compared to the average sales tax rate across the US, which falls around 7.12%.

Income Tax

In 2023, Arizona's income tax rates range from 2.59% to 4.50%, depending on the level of income. This is relatively less as some states like California reach tax rates upwards of 13%, however seven states in the US have no income tax at all.

Housing Market

The housing market in Glendale, AZ is considerably more affordable compared to the national average. As of 2021, the median home value stands at around $268,000, considerably lower than the national median of $377,700. As for rentals, the typical monthly payment is $1,250, also less than the national average. Despite these attractive prices, the Glendale market is competitive with home values witnessing a 14.5% year-on-year increase. Prospective buyers and renters are drawn to Glendale's temperate weather, diverse communities and thriving job market, generating a sustained demand for housing in the area.

Cost of Living

Glendale, AZ offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to many other cities. Expenses such as housing, utilities, and groceries are considerably below the national average. This makes Glendale an attractive place for individuals seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. Despite its steadily growing population, the city continues to maintain its low cost of living, making it a popular choice among new residents. However, compared to other cities in Arizona, Glendale's cost of living is slightly above average. Thus, while more affordable than many cities nationally, within Arizona, Glendale presents a middle-range cost scenario.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Glendale, Arizona boasts a typical arid desert climate that is prominent in the southwestern United States. The city experiences hot desert weather characterized by extended periods of extreme summer heat, mild-to-warm winters, and minimal rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures here easily soar over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the scorching summer months, yet winters are pleasantly mild with lows rarely dipping into the freezing point. Rainfall is low and unevenly distributed, with occasional showers during the summer monsoon season from July through mid-September. Glendale's natural disasters primarily involve extreme heat and occasional dust storms. Also known as haboobs, these dust storms can disrupt visibility and transportation. Flash floods occasionally occur due to sudden rainfalls that outpace absorption by the hard desert surface. Despite the odds, this sun-drenched city manages to hold its charm and attraction year-round for residents and visitors alike.

Economy & Job Market

Healthcare and Social Assistance

Manufacturing

Retail Trade

Accommodation and Food Services

Construction

Glendale, Arizona is a dynamic city that offers a diverse economy for its residents. A suburb of Phoenix, Glendale has been engaging in a vibrant dance with various industries for over a century, including agriculture, manufacturing and retail. However, in recent years, the city has been strutting to the beat of healthcare and social assistance, a sector that now represents a significant portion of employment in the area. In concert with this sector, manufacturing has also taken center stage, along with retail trade, accommodation and food services, and construction. This energetic ensemble has breathed new life into the city's economy and created an economic jamboree.

If you were to pack up your life and boogie on over to Glendale, it would be helpful to be aware of the employment rhythm of the city. Glendale, though dancing to the beat of a fiery economy, does have slightly higher unemployment rates than the national average. But don't let this dampen your groove! The city is vibrant with job opportunities, especially in the promising sectors of healthcare, manufacturing, and retail trade. Take a spin through the city's job listings in these areas and you will likely find numerous opportunities to stay in step with the city's dynamic beat. See you on the dance floor!

Traffic and Transportation

Are you ready to talk about zipping around in sunny Glendale, AZ? Average commute times can vary but generally hang around 26.5 minutes - not too shabby! And it's not just car country, either - if you're looking to grab some public transportation, Valley Metro has got your back. Offering buses that stretch their automotive wings all over the Greater Phoenix area, they make sure you can get to where you're going without a fuss. Not to mention, if you're looking to touch the clouds, Glendale Municipal Airport serves general aviation, while Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, one of the busiest in the nation, ensures worldwide access. Now that's what we call a world of outbound options! So buckle up and enjoy the ride in Glendale; a city that's all geared up, and ready to roll!

What is the traffic like in Glendale, AZ?

Best Neighborhoods in Glendale

1. Arrowhead Ranch

Need a sprinkle of suburban charm and a mix of urban sophistication? Arrowhead Ranch is just the place for you. Nestled in Glendale, this neighborhood is a wonderful blend of everything you would ever want in a neighborhood. The area boasts plenty of beautiful walking trails and parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Plus, with an array of lovely dining options and shopping centers, Arrowhead Ranch guarantees you'll never run out of things to do.

2. Westgate Entertainment District

If you're buzzing with youthful energy and crave a lively environment, Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale should be your top pick. It's an urban neighborhood with an exciting vibe, and it's often considered the heart of Glendale's nightlife. Packed with trendy bars, vibrant music venues, and an impressive array of restaurants, this area promises endless fun. And let's not forget, it's also home to the State Farm Stadium and Gila River Arena for those sports and concert enthusiasts!

3. The Historic Downtown

Experience the rich history and heritage of Glendale in its Historic Downtown, which is often considered the cultural hub of the city. With well-preserved old structures, antique shops, boutiques and a variety of eateries, Historic Downtown displays a distinct charm that continues to captivate both locals and visitors. The numerous festivals and events throughout the year lend a communal and festive vibe, making this an exciting place to live.

4. Deer Valley

Deer Valley perfectly blends a quiet, suburban feel with wonderful conveniences. It is an excellent option for families due to its highly-rated school system and safe, family-friendly atmosphere. The neighborhood is known for its great outdoor spaces, including parks and hiking trails, perfect for those who love spending time in nature. Furthermore, Deer Valley enjoys proximity to popular shopping and entertainment options, ensuring that there is always something to do.

5. Cholla

Are you looking for a peaceful neighborhood with a small-town vibe? Say hello to Cholla! This neighborhood is known for its tranquil environment and friendly community. The peaceful streets combined with good schools and beautiful parks make it an exceptional choice, especially for families. Cholla is also strategically positioned near local businesses, restaurants, and shopping areas, adding a layer of convenience to this wonderful residential locale.

If you are looking to move to Glendale, AZ, these neighborhoods should be at the top of your list. Each offers a unique atmosphere and a range of amenities tailored to various lifestyles. Whether you crave a lively nightlife, wish to immerse yourself in local history, seek a peaceful environment, or wish for a family-friendly neighborhood, Glendale has it covered. Start exploring these neighborhoods and experience the charm and spirit of Glendale yourself!

Best neighborhoods in Glendale, AZ image

Things to Do

Welcome to alluring Glendale, Arizona, the heart of the desert. Glendale is a vibrant melting pot of rich history, lavish landscapes, and a warm community. Moving to a new city is an experience filled with excitement, discovery, and adventure. Newcomers to Glendale, Arizona, prepare to be enamored by the captivating charm of the desert wonderland. Let's explore 7 of the top things you should do in Glendale, that'll even make the locals feel like they've missed out!

1. Historic Downtown Glendale

The charming streets of Historic Downtown Glendale are a treasure trove of unique boutiques, antique shops, and delectable eateries. With plenty of special events organized throughout the year, from fun festivals and art shows to holiday celebrations, there's always a reason to visit downtown.

2. Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park

Forget about a simple zoo visit, the Wildlife World is an adventure of its own! An extravagant affair in the middle of the desert, this massive exotic wildlife sanctuary houses over 600 species, a 4-mile Safari, and a tropical Aquarium. It's a great day out for kids and animal-lovers alike!

3. Sahuaro Ranch Park

A true oasis in the middle of the desert, the Sahuaro Ranch Park offers picnicking, birdwatching, sports facilities, and historical buildings for visitors to explore. It's a perfect place to spend an afternoon, basking in the Arizona sun or relaxing under the shade of a tree.

4. Cerreta Candy Company

Yes, you read that right! In Glendale, you have the opportunity to visit a family-owned candy factory. Cerreta Candy Company offers free tours where you can learn - and taste - how these sweet treats are made. This one's a must for families and candy-lovers alike!

5. Visit The Beet Sugar Factory

For a more offbeat experience, heading to the Beet Sugar Factory - a historic landmark of Glendale - is a great choice. Being one of the first buildings to have electricity in the city back in the 1900s, this now abandoned factory offers an eerie yet fun adventure for history and urban exploration enthusiasts.

6. Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve

Unleash your inner Indiana Jones and explore the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve! Here you'll find over 1,500 petroglyphs (ancient rock etchings), some up to 10,000 years old. This site is a hidden gem possessing a mystical aura and an insight into ancient cultures and their relationship with the surrounding landscape.

7. Experience World-Class Sports

From NFL games and NHL matches to NASCAR races, Glendale is home to world-class sporting events. Don't forget to check out ticking off an exhilarating match at the State Farm Stadium or a thrilling race at the Phoenix International Raceway off your bucket list.

All in all, Glendale, AZ, is a city that brims with fun-filled, exciting, and unique experiences. Whether you're a history lover, a sports enthusiast, a wildlife fanatic, or a foodie, Glendale has something for everyone. So, gear up to be welcomed by a wave of sunny days, rich culture, and a community that bodes an Arizona warmth that beats any desert heat!

Find Movers for Your Glendale Relocation

Discovering the myriad of reasons that make Glendale, AZ an irresistible place to call home convinces you further. Now, it's time to commit to your exciting relocation. Make your move even easier by simplifying the task of finding a reputable moving company. Great Guys Moving specializes in connecting people with dependable movers known for delivering quality service at an affordable price. Submit your move details, including your relocation date and belongings to move, and instantly connect with licensed, insured movers ready to service your move. Make the next step towards your Glendale journey a breeze, request a free moving quote with Great Guys Moving now.

See The Best Movers For Moving To Arizona From...

Find out how much your move costs!